Bonner Cunnings knew he had work to do. The Eagles head coach, was dealt a bad hand, when a lack of healthy/eligible players forced his inaugural season to an end, Oct. 28, 2008.

In recognition of his efforts in turning around his program this season, the West Sequoia League named Cunnings its 2009 Coach of the Year.

“Our coaching staff read through this powerful book and purposed to model the truth of John 16:33 to our team,” Cunnings said. “Nothing in life can possibly stop us from being successful in life with such a promise. Our lives once submitted to Jesus Christ.”

First-year defensive coordinator Ervin “Magic” Hernandez says the work Cunnings put into rebuilding FC’s football program was unmatched.

“When a coach creates a strong vision like he did and actually delivers, all the other stuff like wins and favor come with it,” Hernandez said. “It is amazing what he has done to rebuild this program, and it is because he puts God above anything else. There have been times when football was not even the priority, but coach would just talk about Jesus to these kids, and that is what really matters. Their lives will never be the same because of the challenge coach gave them.”

School administration made the decision to forgo the remaining five games of the ’08 season, Cunnings responded by starting his preparation for the 2009 season early saying, “our coaching staff has a tremendous vision for the future of Eagle football.”

“I think it’s awesome that (Cunnings) won Coach of the Year,” senior quarterback Riley Endicott said. “To be honest, I’m not surprised. He’s worked so hard to get the program back on track. And he’s given God all the glory along the way.”

The football program’s work paid off in 2009; FC battled for a 5-5 regular season record and a playoff game with Division V power Lindsay. Though they lost 42-20 to the Cardinals, the squad gained the respect of the student body, administration and many others along the way.

Among numerous improvements on the 2008 season, the Eagles achieved 1,762 rushing yards, 1,486 receiving yards, 708 tackles, and 28 sacks. Their offense shattered the records of previous seasons while generating 306 total points.

In the wake of his first season with the Eagles, Hernandez says Cunnings is the most influential leader he has ever worked with. Hernandez played high school football in San Diego and coached at Helix High School (which produced NFL stars Reggie Bush and Alex Smith) and San Diego State University.

“Coach Cunnings is the most genuine, hard working, true Man of God I have ever coached with,” Hernandez said. “All great leaders have a vision, and his vision is to equip these young student-athletes to live a life of Jesus Christ. That was evident after every single game when one of our players witnessed to the other teams.”

Due to his reputation as being one of the most iconic figures on campus, players, students and teachers alike respect Cunnings’ work ethic and drive.

“Coach Cunnings is an excellent leader,” junior Seth Ramirez said. “He inspires us all to be the best we can be. I am proud and honored to be on the field at the same time as him.”

Senior captain Tyler Revis says his coach not only got the best out of players on the field, but also helped them grow in their relationship with the Lord.

“Coach is one of the strongest men of God I have ever been around,” Revis said. “No one gives off more passion when speaking about Jesus. He lives every word he preaches and never says something he doesn’t believe in. He always gives us his 100% effort and focus which makes it easy for us to give it back.”

First-year offensive/defensive line coach David Dixon, who currently plays semi-pro football for the Central Valley Crusaders of the Central Valley Football League, says coaches like Cunnings are hard to come by.

“His biggest strenght is his confidence while still being quick to admit his own mistakes,” Dixon said. “In a head coach that is so rare I have never seen it before. We as a staff look forward to a huge vision and bigger future for a team that has been dorment for far too long. Big things have happened and bigger things are coming for Fresno Christian because of coach Cunnings.”

For more information, please read the Football sport shorts, 2009, and the Dec. 2 article, WSL honors coach Tatum.